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Catalonia sovereignty declaration unconstitutional -- Spain

Spanish Deputy Prime Minister Soraya Sayneth de Santamaria
Spanish Deputy Prime Minister Soraya Sayneth de Santamaria
(With photos) MADRID, Feb 8 (KUNA) -- The Spanish government described Friday the declaration of sovereignty, passed by Catalonia parliament, as unconstitutional.
In a press conference, the government unveiled plans to challenge the move before the State's Supreme Constitutional Court.
The central government made it clear that it would not allow cession of any the autonomous regions.
Catalonia's parliament approved on January 23 a declaration of sovereignty signaling the start of an uncertain journey towards a referendum on independence from Spain for the northeastern region.
The resolution - which states that the people of Catalonia have a democratic right to decide on their sovereignty - was passed with 85 votes for, 41 against and two abstentions in the 135-seat legislature. Two deputies were absent and five refused to vote. (end) hnd.ibi KUNA 082031 Feb 13NNNN